Session aims to gauge level of racism on campus

After recent events at the University of Oklahoma involving the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity chanting a racist chant in a video, OCCC has decided to host “Checking Our Pulse: Racism at OCCC?”.

The listening session’s focus is to help administrators understand the level of racism on campus and will be held during The Leadership Council (TLC) meeting from 12:30 to 1:20 p.m. Thursday, March 26, in CU3.

Student Life Director Erin Logan said all students are welcome to attend the meeting to share their thoughts and opinions.

“It is open to whoever wants to attend, but it’s an opportunity for us to check our pulse at OCCC on racism and bigotry going on our campus,” Logan said. “Is there any? If there is, how is it affecting you? What have you done to try to combat it? What can we do as an institution to help you with that?”

Marion Paden, Enrollment and Student Services vice president and other special guests from the community will help lead the meeting.

Logan encourages students to show up at the meeting and voice their concerns, as well to help make OCCC a better place to get an education.

“We want to hear from the students,” she said. “We want to know what we can do and if there’s an issue, if there are problems.

“It’s very important for Dr. Paden, especially, as the vice president for Enrollment and Student Services, to know what’s going on so she can help us make sure our students are having the best experience possible.”

Students who are unable to attend the meeting can complete an online comment card by emailing studentsuggestioncard@occc.edu.